Designing schools for a low-carbon future
THE ASPIRATION
A climate-ready learning environment
To support rising demand for school places in Chelmsford’s new Beaulieu suburb – a major development of around 3,000 homes – Essex County Council commissioned a new primary school building. Opened in September 2024, the facility provides 420 additional places and includes a sports hall and dining area. The ambition was to deliver a Net Zero Carbon in Operation building, aligned with long-term climate resilience targets and designed to promote wellbeing, comfort and educational excellence.
OUR RESPONSE
Engineering sustainability into every layer
Drawing on our experience with both development-led delivery and Net Zero Carbon Schools, we were appointed by RG Carter Construction to provide Building Services Engineering, Sustainability Consultancy, Energy Modelling and Climate-Based Daylight Modelling.
To meet climate resilience goals, we completed overheating assessments using a 2050 climate file (London Gatwick) and advised on passive solar control strategies. This included optimising glazing design and integrating solar shading on the south-facing façade to balance solar gain, providing winter warmth while preventing summer overheating.
The building’s highly insulated SIPS (Structural Insulated Panels) envelope supported excellent thermal performance and airtightness, while the services strategy aligned with LETI energy benchmarks. Our modelling also ensured daylight quality supported student wellbeing and reduced reliance on artificial lighting.
Operational data suggests that the project has exceeded the client’s Net-Zero aspirations, with 10% more energy generated by the Photovoltaic Panels, than the school uses.
THE RESULT
A Net Zero school, ready for the future
The completed building delivers a high-performance, low-energy learning environment that meets LETI energy targets and achieves Net Zero Carbon in Operation. Its passive-first design supports thermal comfort, daylight quality and future climate resilience, all while meeting the practical needs of a growing school community.
THE LASTING IMPACT
Expanding education, reducing emissions
Beaulieu Second Primary stands as a model for future school expansion projects, delivering educational infrastructure that is both responsive to population growth and aligned with Net Zero goals. Our work helped ensure the building doesn’t just serve pupils today, but also supports a climate-conscious legacy for tomorrow.
Find out more about our multidisciplinary approach.
